In addition to launching a SRU, after how many minutes of effort must a SAR case be documented?

• A. 15 minutes
• B. 30 minutes
• C. 60 minutes
• D. 90 minutes

Answer: (B)

In search-and-rescue, you act fast by launching the SRU and then establish a formal SAR case after a set period of search effort without success. The 30-minute threshold is chosen because it gives enough time to deploy initial resources and attempt a search pattern, while still initiating formal case management quickly enough to coordinate additional assets, share updates, and track progress.

Fifteen minutes is usually too short to determine if the search is progressing effectively, while sixty or ninety minutes would delay formal documentation and the mobilization of broader support. Documenting at around 30 minutes strikes the right balance between timely accountability and practical early search effort.